Accused John Cusack stalker accepts plea deal

October 11, 2008 12:00:00 AM PDT

Entertainment News

10/11/2008 LOS ANGELES --

A woman accused of stalking John Cusack accepted a plea deal Friday that will allow her to avoid state prison. Emily Leatherman pleaded no contest to a felony count of stalking Cusack. A judge immediately sentenced her to five years' probation and mandatory psychiatric counseling. The judge ordered Leatherman to stay away from the 42-year-old actor, his home and business for the next 10 years.

Leatherman, 33, was arrested outside Cusack's home in March.

In a rambling statement Friday morning, Leatherman claimed she was the victim of sex crimes and thought Cusack could help her.

Cusack wasn't present in court, but a prosecutor read a statement from him that stated he had never met Leatherman but hoped she received proper psychiatric help.

Cusack's screen credits include "Being John Malkovich," "High Fidelity" and "Grace Is Gone."